By Mae Singuay

The Bacolod Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) was urged to suspend the accreditation of a towing service firm.

Councilor Al Victor Espino, chair of the committee on laws and ordinances, said former Councilor Archie Baribar, in his letter, requested the suspension of the accreditation of Metro Towing Services (MTS) as there was no bidding procedure conducted.

Baribar’s request was forwarded to the City Legal Office.

However, Espino explained that a bidding procedure is not needed because MTS’ accreditation is not applicable under Republic Act 9184, or the National Procurement Act.

He added that the implementation of the city towing ordinance has no exclusivity, as the memorandum of agreement with MTS complied with the ordinance.

Meanwhile, City Legal Office head Romeo Carlos Ting, Jr. also shared the same sentiments that MTS’ towing services are not illegal as what Baribar is trying to imply.

Private companies are open to extend their services as long as they have accreditation from the city government.

Baribar has also indicated in his letter the collection share from apprehension on towing services, as 75 percent will go to MTS and 25 percent to the city government.

Espino said MTS has the biggest collection share because the city government provided no equipment for towing services.

It was learned that Baribar paid P2,100 in penalties as his vehicle was towed on December 15, 2023./MS, WDJ